Cathay Pacific Pet Travel Policy
CX • Hong Kong • Oneworld
Complete guide to flying with your pet on Cathay Pacific. Cabin and cargo rules, crate requirements, breed restrictions, and required documents. Last verified: 2026.
⚠️ Snub-Nosed Breed Restrictions
Cathay Pacific restricts brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds from cargo transport. Affected breeds include: Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Shih Tzu.
Snub-nosed breeds restricted from cargo during hot months
Cabin Travel
Cargo / Hold Travel
Crate Requirements (IATA Compliant)
⚠️ Common Rejection Reasons
- • Crate size issues
- • Documentation incomplete
Breed Restrictions
Snub-Nosed (Brachycephalic) Breeds
Snub-nosed breeds restricted from cargo during hot months
Don't Risk Rejection
Get your crate checked by AI before you get to the airport. Know in minutes if you'll pass Cathay Pacific's inspection.
Documents Required
- Health certificate
- Rabies vaccination
- Import permit for destination
Official Policy
Always verify with Cathay Pacific directly before travel.
Cathay Pacific Pet PolicyLast verified: 2026
Flying with Your Pet on Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific (CX) is an international carrier and member of the Oneworld alliance.The airline allows small pets to travel in the cabin under your seat, as well as offering cargo transport for larger animals.
Understanding Cathay Pacific's Pet Policy
Cathay Pacific's pet travel policy follows IATA (International Air Transport Association) Live Animals Regulations, with some airline-specific additions. All crates must be IATA-compliant with rigid construction, adequate ventilation, secure metal door, and proper labeling. Pets must have current health certificates and rabies vaccinations.
Brachycephalic Breed Restrictions
Like most major airlines, Cathay Pacific restricts snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds from cargo transport. These breeds have compromised respiratory systems that make them vulnerable to heat stroke and breathing difficulties in the cargo hold environment. Affected breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and similar flat-faced dogs and cats. If you have a brachycephalic breed, you may only transport them in the cabin (if they meet weight requirements) or consider alternative transport methods.
How to Avoid Rejection at Check-In
The most common reasons for pet crate rejection at Cathay Pacific check-in include: incorrect crate sizing, plastic clips instead of metal bolts, insufficient ventilation, missing or expired health certificates, and attempting to fly restricted breeds in cargo. Using our AI pre-check service can identify these issues before you arrive at the airport, giving you time to make corrections.